First Methodist Episcopal Church. Westfield, Massachusetts : seventy-fifth anniversary exercises. Historical address: Methodism in Westfield

1836-1911

First Methodist Episcopal
Church.

WESTFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS

SEVENTY-FIFTH
ANNIVERSARY EXERCISES

HISTORICAL ADDRESS
METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

DELIVERED BY

robert chapin parker
Sunday, October i, 1911

AT 6. 30 P. M.

PRINTED 1914

FIRST METHODIST CHURCH IN WESTFiELD

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PRESENT CHURCH

REV. PHILIP L. FRICK, D, D.

Philip L Trick

Son of Conrad and Frederiea Friek; born at Denver. Colorado,
Jan. 20, 1874. Graduated from the East Denver High School
1893; the University of Denver 1897. Taught in Central High
School, Pueblo, and Manual Training High School, Denver.
Completed course in theology leading to degree of S. T. B. at
Boston University in 1901. One year of postgraduate study in
Germany at the University of Berlin and the University of Halle,
specializing in Philosophy and Comparative Religions. 1903,
received from Boston University degree of Ph. D. for work com-
pleted under Professor Browne. First appointment, while a stu-
dent at the School of Theology, at Appleton church, Xeponset.
Admitted to the New England Conference, 1902, and for two
years pastor at Flint Street, Somerville ; 1904-1908, First Church,
Chelsea; Westfield, 1908-1912 ; Delaware Avenue. Buffalo 1912—.
Married Oct. 1, 1902 to Ruth Rishell, daughter of Professor O.
W Rishell of Boston University School of Theology. One daugh-
ter, Elizabeth Frederica Friek, born March 26. 1904 at Somer-
ville. Received degree of D. D. from University of Denver, in

1914. Author of "The Resurrection and Paul's Argument,"
published in 1912.

ROBERT CHAPIN PARKER

Robert Cbapin ParKer

Was born at the home of his maternal grandfather, Abel J.

Chap in in South Livonia, X. Y., January 19, 1871, son of Kobert
F and Elizabeth E. (Chapin) Parker, and grandson of Re\
Samuel Parker, a veteran member of the Central New York Con-
ference. He moved to Westfield, Mass. with his parents in 1875.
when his father was elected president of the American Whip
Company, and Westfield has been his home since. He was grad-
uated at the Westfield High School, 1888; East Greenwich. R. I.,
Academy, 1889; Wesleyan University. (B. A.) 1893; South
Carolina College. (LI. B.) 1895. Admitted to the Massachusetts
Bar, 1896; clerk of District Court of AVestern Hampden 1896-
1901 ; Special Justice of the same Court since 1902. Member of
School Committee 1901-1907, and chairman for four years. Lay
Delegate to General Conference, Los Angeles, 1904. Married
Mary E. Snow (B. U '99) October 11, 1908. Official positions,
— Steward since 1896; Sunday School Superintendent since 1909.
Vice President, Massachusetts Sunday School Association ; Chair-
man of Committee of Management. Xorthfield Summer School of
Sunday School Methods ; Secretary of Directors, AYestfield Young
Men's Christian Association; Clerk of Trustees of Westfield
Academy ; President of Springfield District Camp Meeting As-
sociation.

Methodism in Westfield

The history of the First Methodist Episcopal Church of
Westfield naturally divides itself (1) into the days of the cir-
cuit, without a special place of worship, — (2) the era of the
edifice on Main street, — (3) the time of the structure on Elm
and School streets, — (4) and then the latter years, the abiding
in this spacious building in which we are now gathered. These
four divisions are of uneven length, but they are simple and
evident, and perhaps as desirable for the purposes of our short
survey as could be made. The first period, that of the circuit
rider with his courageous faith, covers about foity years; the
second, that of construction and adjustment, ten years ; the third,
that of unrest, revival and aggressiveness, thirty years ; and the
fourth and last period, that of consistent progress, substantial
prosperity and assured position, thirty-five years. If you pre-
fer, you may characterize it thus : — first, the coming of the mis-
sionary, fearless, tireless, and with the message of "Whosoever
will", supported by an ecclesiastical organization especially
adapted for the spread of a new gospel in the wilds of a new
country; then, the erection of a special place of worship, dedi-
cated as the home of this new sect; in a decade, this place out-
grown and a second structure put up, for the same sect and
their popular doctrine ; a score and one-half years flying by and
the trend of events then demands strongly another and much
improved church building, well located.

The olden circuit-rider, rugged in his righteousness, rich in
his experience, zealous in his labors, and strenuous in his activity,
his horse and his bible his constant companions, appeals strong-
ly to our imaginations. Popular or unpopular, learned or un-
learned, gracious or rude, alone or with his fellow laborers, he
was always picturesque, and always aggressive. He preferred
to be invited to visit a new community, and he preferred to

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

have his audience furnished, but he was not at all insistent.
He had a message and he had authority for delivering it — yea,
verily, he was held strictly responsible by district and conference
as to how he fulfilled the high calling that was his. Can you
not see him as he approaches the attractive little community of
Hoop-Pole in the year 1794? Riding slowly along on his faith-
ful horse, saddle bags well extended with supplies for several
days, now and then taking in somewhat of the beautiful scenery
about him, occasionally glancing at a book held in his hand, — of
wiry build, of ruddy countenance, of kindly but firm face, initia-
tive stamped in his every appearance, he pauses to make inquiry,
and then boldly rides up to the Widow Loomis' house and dis-
mounts. Throwing the reins over a convenient post, carefully
gathering his precious saddle-bags in his arms, he mounts the
front steps and gives the knocker a resounding thump. The Itiner-
ant had arrived, and Methodism had entered the confines of
Westfield. We become a part of the famous Granville Circuit,
centering at the renowned Beech Hill, and which in 1800 belong-
ed to the Rhinebeck District of the New York Conference and
furnished the Presiding Elder with a territory extending from
the Hudson to the Connecticut.

We instinctively associate religious services, especially
preaching, with a regularly instituted place of worship, a church.
The itinerant was familiar with churches and occasionally had
the privilege of preaching therein, but it was rare compared with
his holding forth in house, in school house, and if the audience
was large, even in some hospitable barn. He went forth with his
fellow circuit-rider, visiting the classes, organizing new classes,
laying foundations for future church organizations and dignified
structures, making the round of the whole circuit, possibly once
in two weeks, perhaps only once in four weeks. Occasionally he
was able to meet with a certain class or preach in a certain set-
tlement on Sunday, but more often on some week night. Minis-
tering to the sick, consoling the sorrowful, burying the dead, ad-
vising the troubled, saving the lost and up-building the republic,
these brave, resolute, wise and hardy pionpers, these itin-
erants of the former days, these honored circuit riders.
have left us a splendid heritage. No page of our early history,
shines brighter. They labored and we have entered into their

METHODISM IN YYESTFIELD

labors. They laid the foundations and we erected the super-
structure, but they laid the foundations deep, with their sacri-
fice, their toil and their devotion. Their- illustrious record be-
longs not alone to the great church which they made possible,
but it is also the property of the country which they honored and
endowed in its early days of trial, perplexity and experiment.
All honor to the itinerant ! His saddle was his parsonage,
scattered communities his parish, experience his teacher, the St.
James Version his authority and an ever-present God his conso-
lation.

The Granville Circuit, composed of many surrounding
classes and charges and originally in the New England Confer-
ence, in 1800 was placed in the New York Conference, and con-
tinued therein until 1829, when the greater portion of this Cir-
cuit was set off to New England, where it more properly be-
longed and where it has since remained. Beech Hill, of familiar
sound and lofty elevation, the location of whose original church
building, is now marked by an inscribed boulder recently erected
through the enterprise of one of our young men, D- B.
Aldrich; Feeding Hills, now honored by a memorial church
built by one of our own members, E. R. Lay; and Hoop-
Pole, were three of the early regular elasess of this
extensive circuit, extending from Agawam to Worthing-
ton and beyond, and taxing to the utmost the powers
of the two brethren assigned each year as itinerant preachers.
In 1798 in September, the Conference met at Granville with
about fifty ministers present, the largest assembly of Methodist
preachers ever assembled in New England. In 1800, this Gran-
ville Circuit reported 300 members, and in 1810, 352 members
while in that latter year Lynn had but 245, and Boston only
306. The reports tend to show that the circuit-riders received
their support in some other way than funds, for the few dollars
contributed are merely nominal, but their zeal knew no financial
limitations.

The year 1800 was marked by two events of real importance.
The Rev. Billy Hibbard, who had joined the Conference in 1798,
was with the Rev. Truman Bishop assigned to the Granville Cir-
cuit, and for all of that year he rode among the various sta-
tions and classes and had the honor of forming the first class in

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

"Westfield, at Hoop-Pole. Hibbard was one of those unique
men, who left a reputation behind him. He prided himself on
the familiarity of his name. At a Conference session when the
roll was called, and the name Billy Hibbard was announced, the
presiding bishop ventured to make an alteration, "William Hib-
bard." The Reverend "Billy" arose, with all the dignity and
fearlessness of his circuit riding career, drew himself to full
height and vigorously protested, "My name is 'Billy.' " The
bishop modestly retreated and never again was there any at-
tempt to make over the Rev. Billy Hibbard. Most of his career
was passed in New York state, but his active twelve months on
the great Granville Circuit were such as to be remembered. He
has written : — "Some threw stones at me, and some set their dogs
on me, as I rode along. But the Lord defended me. I never
had a stone to hit me, or a dog to bite me. Some threatened
to whip me, but I escaped." A company lay in wait
for him in a swamp, through which he had to ride from Spring-
field to Westfield, proposing to whip him, but as he was passing
a house before he came to the swamp, a woman called to him
that Brother A was sick and wanted a visit, so he turned his
horse and rode cross lots to Brother A's house and on leaving
him went another road, escaping the moh. ,

Amasa Stocking, an exhorter, started revival services that
became of such importance in Hoop-Pole, that it became neces-
sary to remove to. Moses Sackett's barn to accommodate the con-
gregation. The Congregational society in the center of the
town, the natural and assumed guardian of the town's welfare,
became alarmed over the proceedings and called a meeting of
the society to see what should be done "to steady the ark in
Hoop-Pole." They wisely sent their pastor. He went and saw
and rejoiced. He reported there was no danger of Hoop-Pole
for God was there. Mr. Stocking was licensed as a preacher and
for some years he held forth in school houses and private houses,
but he never became a regular itinerant or circuit rider of the
Conference. He is an excellent illustration of the splendid
work performed by local workers in many of the early pioneer
fields. It is told of Brother Carter of Russell, one of the old-
time preachers, who held many services, that one night, return-
ing home, he was so absorbed in some heavenly theme, as to walk
right by his own home.

METHODISM IX WESTFIELD

During the pastorates of Rev. Reuben Harris and of Rev.
Thomas Thorpe, in 1812, a class was formed in the center of
town at the corner of Main and Elm streets, in the Joel Farnum
house. This residence was the headquarters of the intinerants
passing through Westfield. Hotels and inns were none too
plenty at best, and even if they were accessible, the circuit ridel's
had not the opportunity to stop at them, because of financial
limitations. These hospitable homes of the Farnum type, so
frequent and so blessed, in the days of the itinerant, helped
make possible, the founding of the Methodist Church, and they
deserve mention. However, it was not a one-sided affair, for
the circuit riders were delightful guests, bringing in much of
their experiences in the outer world, and contributing to relieve
the tediousness and the ever-present strain of pioneer life.
The class consisted of ten and was under the leadership of Oliver
Sikes, a leader and local preacher, afterwards an itinerant
preacher. We find Mrs. Farnum as one of the original mem-
bers. Strange as it may seem to us the class was officially con-
nected with the church at Feeding Hills. Methodism now had
a foot-hold in the center of the town, and received its regular
visitations and sermons from the already actively engaged duo
of clergymen assigned each year by the Conference to the Gran-
ville Circuit. It was to be twenty years before the Methodists
of the center of the town were to have a regular place of worship,
erected for their use. The revival at Little River in 1818, in
connection with the labors of Guy Noble, must have added to
the strength of the local organization.

Probably Nathan Bangs, Presiding Elder of the Rhinebeck
District from 1813 to 1817, was the most distinguished of the men
who had oversight of this great district extending from the Hud-
son to the Connecticut. The wonderful fore-sight of our eccles-
iastical system in looking after all desirable communities, has
been made possible, by the office of Presiding Elder and District
Superintendent. How these worthies of the olden days were
able to perform their duties makes us marvel! No railroads
occasional stage coaches, and poorly constructed highways were
obstacles they encountered, in traveling their widely-stretching
districts. Dr. Bangs, afterwards the distinguished church his-
torian and able writer, was a giant in those days, in mind and

METHODISM IN ^YESTFIELD

body. His position as Presiding Elder was materially aided by
natural influence that he had over others. In walking, it is re-
lated that he had inclination to hold his head on one side. This
habit was unconsciously copied by intimate personal friends.
After a Conference session, it is said to have been interesting to
watch the effect that Dr. Bangs had exerted upon the young
preachers, consciously or unconsciously, in their imitation of his
mannerisms. "Young Bangs," some wag called them. It is
all a wonderful testimony to the power of the wonderful man
who travelled this district for several years and afterwards be-
came one of the intellects of the church, of whom the denomina-
tion has reason to be proud. The graduation of class-leader,
intinerant preacher, presiding elder and bishop, justified itself
in those early days even more than now, but the presence of a
really great man like Dr. Bangs, was a real aid to the system.

In the order of human events, it proved desirable, even
necessary, to erect a church structure. We can readily imagine
the struggles, even privations found necessary, to make this
possible. In a new country, without manufacturing or special
industry other than agriculture, and with primitive means of
transportation, the building of a church edifice was made pos-
sible only by the resourcefulness of the people themselves. Tim-
ber was obtainable near at hand and everybody was familiar, by
close acquaintance, with actual manual labor. The church at
Hoop-Pole, so well-known to all of us, was dedicated in the lat-
ter part of the year 1829. For those times it must have been a
really worthy edifice. It is interesting to note that its building
coincides with the year in which the Granville Circuit, or that
portion of it especially concerned with Hampden and Hamp-
shire County, was set off to the New England Conference, and be-
came a portion of the Springfield District, with Rev. David Kil-
burn as Presiding Elder. Rev. Elbert Osborn, who with Rev. L.
Mead, closed his pastorate of the Granville Circuit in May 1829, re-
ports preaching once every two weeks in "Westfield, in a private
house, on a week evening, which gives us a very fair idea of the
status of Methodist worship in Wiestfield, at the time we separat-
ed from the Rhinebeck District and New York Conference and
began receiving pastors from the New England Conference.
The erection of the new church was an event of great importance

METHODISM IX WESTFIELD

to all Methodists, of this section. We can hardly appreciate
what it signified, after the years of worshipping in residences.
Brother Kilburn preached the dedication sermon from the text,
"This is none other than the House o^f God," a well chosen
theme for those interested people, at last settled in a "House of
God."

No well-regulated account of this important dedication ever
omits the experience, with the heating of the house. Foot-stoves,
soap-stones, and other early forms of primitive warmth were
possible, to say nothing of the old-fashioned sheet-iron wood
stove, but it is possible that the heating equipment for the place
had been delayed. Anyway, November or December are cool
months, and recourse was had to kettles filled with charcoal,
placed about the auditorium. The services proceeded and after
a time the Presiding Elder noticed a seeming lassitude upon the
part of his hearers, then a sleepiness, and even an evident un-
consciousness. A retiring man, of sensitive disposition, might
have considered it a possible result of his sermon, and attempted
to put more stress into it. or at length, embarrassed, sat down too
confused to proceed. Not so, Brother Kilburn. His varied ex-
periences had developed a resourcefulness and a quickness of
decision and action, so necessary in those days. He simply
stopped his discourse, took instant command of the situation, or-
dered the offending kettles removed, the windows and doors
thrown open, the room thoroughly aired, and when all the people
were restored to consciousness and ability to appreciate a worthy
discourse on a really great occasion, he calmly proceeded with
the dedication, in decency and order. Just how many people
from the center used to wend their way to the Hoop-Pole 'Church
we do not know, but we assume it must have been several of
those interested, for the distance is not great. The erection of
this first church building naturally gave encouragement and
standing to the Methodist work throughout the borders of the
whole town.

Until the spring of 1832 the name Granville appeared as
the leading place in the printed minutes, with Westfield, Feeding
Hills, etc.. as subordinate, but now Westfield arises to the dignity
of the Head of a Circuit, so-called. And coinciding with this,
comes the planning and erection of a church building in the

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

center of the town, for the dignity of being at the head of the
circuit, was hardly to be borne, with no established place of reg-
ular worship. The town of Westfield presented the lot, at the
corner of Main street and Clinton avenue. The corner stone was
laid with ceremony and the address was delivered by a visiting
minister from Springfield. The frame of the church was raised
with some delay. The timbers were large and heavy and the
help was small. Some extra assistance was borrowed from Eras-
tus Grant's shop and the walls went up. Henry Douglass fear-
ing that if the men scattered for dinner, they could not be readily
assembled afterwards, sent around the neighborhood for pies and
other satisfying eatables. The weary workers sat on the timbers
and rested and refreshed themselves, and before night-fall, they
had almost entirely completed the raising. But, alas, — after the
frame had been raised, it remained uncovered, all the season,
and made it possible for the unfriendly and critical, as they
passed by to wag their heads and say, as of old, ' ' This man be-
gan to build and was not able to finish. ' '

The work of finishing the house proceeded slowly. It was
not until the spring of 1833 that the frame was boarded and
shingled and a floor laid. A rough pulpit was extemporized,
rougher seats installed and meetings actually held in the new
structure.

The good Methodist people of Westfield now felt hopeful and
had reason to rejoice. The new church actually up, the vestry
finished and good summer accommodations on hand. In the fall,
came the completion of the church and its dedication, September
10th, 1833. To quote from the Westfield Journal :— " The au-
dience was large and respectable, and the services solemn and
interesting. The church is large and commodious; it is finished
in handsome style ; it adds much to the appearance of our vil-
lage. " The dedicating sermon was preached by one of the most
eloquent men of those times. Rev. Hiram H. White, who had
recently come to Springfield and his text was one dealing with
"The House of the Lord." It is indeed interesting to note that
one of the pastors sent by the New England Conference this
same year has left behind, him a distinct reputation for the
beauty of his voice, and it was in this new place of worship that
the humble Methodist people of Westfield, had the splendid op-

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

portunity to listen to this preacher so signally endowed. The
circumstances of the recently erected edifice, the worshipful char-
acter of services conducted in worshipful surroundings, and the
charm of Brother Tucker's musical voice, must have left an im-
pression upon the many souls gathered herein, from time to time.

We are not surprised to read of the gracious work of these
years immediately succeeding the building of the new church.
Brother Ephraim Scott reports 1834 and 1835 as "Years full of
glory, the two best of my life." "Forty were added to the
church, most heads of families. ' ' The Reverend Paul Townsend
also reports "I spent two happy years in Westfield and God
blessed my labors." The charge seems to have enjoyed a certain
popularity with the clergy, which has come down to the present
day

The second period of our historical division concludes with
the pastorate of one of the really great men who have served this
church. Just before his arrival in Westfield, Hiram Harrison
retired from the Superintendency of the Sunday School and
Thomas Kneil entered upon that position. Also an event of
such significance as to be difficult of appreciation took place.
The Boston and Albany railroad was opened, with all that that
meant to the Commonwealth and its towns in possibility and ac-
cessibility The Granville Circuit was no longer on the out-
skirts, but it became and remained, with other communities and
circuits, more accessible and nearer-at-hand.

It was during the pastorate of Eev. Paul Townsend that
Westfield was honored by being made a separate society, and
it is from that time. 1836, that the anniversarv celebrated to-
night, dates. Slavery began to become a prominent issue, to
say nothing of the Washingtonian temperance movement of 1840.
It is to our credit that the Methodists were found in the advance
ranks of both these reforms, but they caused discussion and
great activity in the ranks of the churches, to say nothing at all
of the theological discussions of these earlier days, Some Con-
gregationalist, feeling himself called to the task, sets about deal-
ing blows at the Arminian doctrine, that are calculated to give
comfort to all true Calvinists, and he is answered by the learned
Dr. Fiske or some other suitably equipt ministerial writer. One
did not rust out in those trying days.— The new church gave po-

METHODISM IX ^Y EST FIELD

sition, and assurance, but it was. a center of real mental and
spiritual strivings. The people became strong with exercis«\
which was not lacking.

Jefferson Hascall was not unknown to Westfield when he ar-
rived in the summer of 1842, to take up the work of a pastor, for
he had been here twelve years previously and also had engaged
in revival services. He was greeted with choice words and the
kindliest courtesy by the people; and the Westfield News-Letter
heralded him handsomely. His appointment was highly appre-
ciated. His eloquence and his powers of leadership, so prom-
inent throughout his long life, bore fruits in this charge, that
must have surprised those who knew him intimately He began
his pastorate without prejudice and without criticism, and the
people gave heed to his word. His fine literary taste, combined
with his forcefulness and initiative and eloquence would have
given him a following anywhere. His meetings are said to have
been prayerful, penitential and powerful. His splendid welcome
in Westfield, the possibilities of the growing parish and the con-
ditions that he found here, must have imprest him greatly, for
we find him at once encouraging the people to erect a larger and
more centrally-located place of worship. Dr. Hascall was a
man of great plans, purposes and prospective wisdom. A lot
was at once selected and the new house commenced. The frame
was built near the canal in Northampton, general dimensions 81 x
63, with a vestry 63 x 17, the structure completed to contain
116 pews. Dedication day came in March 1843, less than a year
after the arrival of Dr. Hascall, as pastor of the church. Is it
to be wondered at that he served as Presiding Elder for 21 years
and had few or no superiors in that position of executive respon-
sibility ?

The dedication sermon was preached by Rev. Charles Adams,
principal of the Academy at Wilbraham. whose dependence upon
the new railway on a snowy March day. made him an hour late.
and then he arrived by means of horse transportation. He found
Presiding Elder Ransom just about to begin the sermon. Dr.
Hascall reports Dr. Adams' sermon as "adapted, original, elo-
quent, and giving universal satisfaction." "The choir sang ex-
cellent, solemn and devotional." The crowd was large, the pastor
cheery, and the occasion surely auspicious, except for the delay

METHODISM IX WESTFIELD

of the preacher of the occasion. The voluntary was played by
an organist from Boston. Then followed singing by the choir,
' ' Now to the Lord a Noble Song. ' ' Lessons read by Rev. James
Mudge of West Springfield. Singing by the choir, "0 Thou,
Whom all saints adore." Prayer by Rev. James Mudge. Sing-
ing, "Before Jehovah's awful throne." Sermon by Dr. Adams.
Congregational singing, "Behold Thy Temple, God of Grace."
Prayer by Rev. Dr. Davis. Doxology, Benediction prounounced
by the Presiding Elder. And so the spacious new church, an
edifice of which the society had reason to be proud was dedicated
and set apart to the work of Methodism in Westfield. The pro-
gress made must have surprised even those who were a part of
it. It is quite possible that the labors of the old circuit-riders,
labors which must have seemed barren at times, were now bear-
ing much fruit and in short season. Merely to state the fact of
the dedication of two specially built churches within ten years,
is eloquent with impressiveness.

Is it to be wondered at that the handsome new structure was
honored with a Sunday school exhibition, on the 3d of May and
only two months after the dedication? The prosperity of the
Westfield Methodists was not only a matter of local interest and
pride, but the New England Conference participated therein, by
holding its session here, in the month of July of the following,
year, and thus f ocussed attention upon Westfield far beyond the
local borders. This Conference closed the successful labors
of the popular, poetical and saintly Hascall. Although it was
not till 1887 that he came into the precincts of his own beauti-
ful hymn, "My latest sun is sinking fast, my race is nearly run,"
he never was stationed at Westfield again. The church member-
ship was 390 at this time, and a Sunday School enrollment of
about 150, with an attendance of about 100. West Parish was
made a separate station in 1843, and a minister assigned.

The Conference session of 1814 was presided over by Bishop
Bedding and also by Bishop Janes who had just been elected a
bishop and was officially at his first conference. The Conference
Sabbath was really a great day for local Methodism. Bishop
Janes preached in our own church, Father Taylor of unique fame
and reputation, preached in the First Congregational Church,
and at the evening service the revered Stephen Olin, President of

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

Wesleyan University was the speaker. Father Taylor and Dr.
Davis must have become quite well acquainted, for not only did
he preach for him, but he delivered a temperance lecture in his
church, also.

A mere incident of this Conference session, but one of in-
terest to Westfield, was the ordination of Daniel Richards, pastor
here in 1865. Father Taylor was the special feature of the Con-
ference as he was of any gathering of which he was a part.
Rough, impassioned, vehement, tearful, and far from consistent,
he always had an interested group of listeners.

This Conference sent Mark Trafton to be pastor of the
church and he remained for a year, and with a year's absence re-
turned again for another year. In 1854 was again appointed to
the Westfield church. "Wherever Mark Trafton was, things were
"doing." He was tall, straight as an ash, witty, full of wise
sayings, a natural leader, and above all things very interesting,
although filled with self-assurance. He loved a joke and was
mirth-provoking. With Billy Hibbard, and Jefferson Hascall,
he stands out as the most prominent of the men assigned to our
church in its earlier days. It was my fortune as a boy, to have
seen him in his mature years. I recall his witty sayings, his tall,
lithe figure, and what imprest me, the close resemblance there was
to the characteristic figure of Uncle Sam, as we all have come
to know it. He was a towering figure at the anniversary exer-
cises of twenty-five years ago, and the humor of his extended re-
marks, — rather too extended in fact, — I recall with interest and
pleasure even now. — We are now at the period of the intense
prejudice against secret societies. It seems that Mark Trafton
was a member of perhaps the leading society of that time, but in
Westfield he was never active at all. However, he stirred up the
dislike of the so-called ' ' rich man ' ' of the church, who, strange as
it may seem, was renting a hall to this very society The in-
fluence of this man was strong enough to prevent Dr. Trafton 's
return the second year, and he went to Cambridgeport. The
year of his absence was a lively time in Westfield, and at the
next Conference session Dr. Trafton and the Presiding Elder
had combat of words on the conference floor, but Trafton vig-
orously defended himself and his character was passed. Bishop
Waugh sent Dr. Trafton back to Westfield, and he returned.

l o'

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

The "rich-man" as Dr. Trafton, in his writing calls him, was
mightily stirred, although most of the people received Trafton
gladly. He went to Boston and engaged a company of men who
were going about giving exposes of the inside of lodge rooms,
and for six nights this company exhibited to crowded houses
in the Town Hall. The exhibitions were free and the attend-
ance was accordingly large. Now came the opportunity of the
aroused church member, as he was able to go about among the
people, saying, "Do you want a preacher, who goes into such
stuff as that?" The more ignorant crowd in town were greatly
affected and Dr. Trafton reports that he was hooted at from
shop windows, and it got so, his wife disliked to have him go on
the street at night. He reports that his patience was sorely
tried, and while the mass of the people supported him, he cer-
tainly suffered agony of heart, during that memorable year. His
published autobiography goes into the details of this matter with
much interest, and it is all an interesting side-light of that
period, very difficult to appreciate at the present.

"When next the Conference met in Westfield in 1854, Dr.
Trafton was again returned to this charge, and the public so
appreciated his return, that in the fall of that year, with no
personal effort he was elected to Congress. Although it was his
ability, his eloquence and his wit that elected him, it was as a
Know-Nothing that he was chosen by other Know-Xothings, who
in this case certainly seem to have belied their popular nickname.
The Congress in which he served contained eleven ministers
and was the beginning of the end of slavery

Miner Raymond, lofty in thought, effective in elocution,
fertile in mental resource, was called higher from his local pas-
torate and in his second vear became Principal of the Academy at
Wilbraham, where he remained for some twentv rears, and
afterwards was prominent as a Theological Professor in the
Northwest.

It was in 1851 that. J. H. Twombley first came to Westfield,
— a strong man, whom Westfield had good cause to remember and
appreciate, in after years. He had a dignity of bearing with
his height and size that was impressive, a full clear voice, and
had that remarkable part of genius, the ability to make others

METHODISM IX AYESTFlELD

work. The Sunday School increased greatly, the congregation
grew, a mission school was organized in the Fox district, many
of the pews received cushions and what was more important, his
second year saw nearly all of them rented. Following Camp
Meeting, in August, in his second year, there was almost un-
interrupted religious interest. A brief item but of wonderful
import, — In the first year of the pastorate a sewing society was
formed. It was William Butler that succeeded Brother Twom-
bley. A son of Erin, he prayed with true Irish fervor, and
preached scriptural sermons. He removed from Westfield to
Lynn and from that charge made his first pilgrimage to far India
and laid the foundations of Methodist missions there, later also
starting the work in Mexico, where his son now labors as the
Superintendent in charge. Dr. Butler came to Westfield from
Shelburne Falls, and is described as being not only mentally
equipt, but extremely simple in his ways and with the goodness
of an angel — naturally a pious, prayerful man.

The second Conference of the New England body assembled
here April 19th, 1854, with Bishop Baker presiding. It is quite
apparent that the position of the Westfield church was recognized
throughout the Conference bounds or else there would not have
been tw T o sessions in this town so near together. — In those days,
only a half century ago, people did not conceal their feelings as
now. We read that when a minister addrest the Conference up-
on the death of Mrs. Butler, who died as a young woman during
her husband's pastorate in Westfield, there were many weepers.

Mark Trafton was succeeded by one who was destined to
become great in the history of our denomination, Gilbert Haven,
and whose son, we are honored in having with us tonight. A
scholarly man, genial, gentle and joy-loving, yet with the most
intense convictions and the courage to make them known, he was
here for the full two years term and then removed to Roxbury.
His versatile pen was not idle while in Westfield and afterwards
as writer, editor and bishop, he became widely known. It was
the delight of Hon. Thomas Kneil, when a delegate at the General
Conference of 1872 to cast his vote for his former pastor, Gilbert
Haven, to become bishop.

The Reverend D. E. Chapin came to this charge in 1858 and
he had the longest pastorate ever held, three years, — to quote

METHODISM IS AYESTFIELD

his own statement, the last year better than the first. He was a
man of real strength, not only in doing things himself, but in
getting things done, which is rather better. The record of 32
baptisms shows a good degree of religious interest, while the re-
papering of the church, the lowering of the organ and the choir
seats, the removal of the doors from the pews and the placing of
arms thereon, the painting and varnishing of the interior, show
a condition of material prosperity that is gratifying. The loca-
tion of the vestry was also changed and the stairs relocated, and
an alteration made in the front entrance. It was fifteen years
since the building of the structure and these improvements were
advisable and desirable. Brother Chapin received a salary of
$900, and a donation, the latter making a real addition to the sal-
ary, and bringing the pastor's remuneration up to the dignity of
the society he served. — Colonel Bowler was the preacher-in-
charge of our church for only a year and one-half. He was a
square-built man of massive forehead, and of real versatility.
His pastorate was in the stirring times of war. Soon after he
reached AVestfield, he preached a sermon on the Text; "Let him
that hath no sword, go and buy himself one." He was certainly
true to his word, for he left his charge to go to the front as
Colonel of the 46th Massachusetts Infantry, and Rev. C. D. Hills
acted as supply. Although there are distinct advantages in en-
listing as an officer, perhaps as chief officer, yet the Rev. Mr.
Bowler could not have been satisfied or perhaps it took longer
to finish the rebellion than he had thought, for he resigned his
commission after a few months service and returned to become
the pastor of the Second Congregational Church of Westfield, and
was installed in April, 1863. almost exactly two years from his
first coming to Westfield. Perhaps no other single thing is more
complimentary to the class of the ministers sent by the Con-
ference to Westfield, than to have one of our own men go directly
from our church into that of a sister church in the same com-
munity, and after having been honored by high military office.
The Conference of 1861, which had sent Colonel Bowler to West-
field, was made interesting by the combat raged against long
beards and against tobacco. Father Taylor, the world renowned
Seamen's Chaplain enlivened the sessions, with such remarks as
these, after an eloquent flight by one of the brethen: — "If I was

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

as eloquent as that doctor, I would sit on the clouds and lay my
head on the moon."

It seems almost like the present to state that the next pastor
of this church was the Reverend Henry W Warren, now the
respected and revered and active bishop of the denomination,
resident in Colorado. A remarkable man at this day and a re-
markable man when pastor of the Westfield church, nearly one-
half century ago. A fine presence, and excellent voice, the ways
of an orator, a scientific mind and a confidence in himself, he has
ever been a credit to the church and himself. The respect in
which I observed he was held at the General Conference of 1904,
is of personal interest to me, now.

During his first year here, the galleries were installed and
the pulpit was changed. In the autumn of 1864, the pastor went
to the Army as a delegate of the Christian Commission and was
absent nearly two months. Brother "Warren came here from
Lynn and he moved to Cambridgeport. Today, over eighty
years of age, his voice and mind are clear and active, and he
still travels through the connection, holding conferences and
doing other service. His facile pen is ever near him, when he is
at home.

Reverend Henry W Warren was followed by a modest man,
Daniel Richards, who had been in Lynn for six years. He was
not a great preacher but he had a talent for records and spared
no pains to make them of some service to the church he served.
He grieved over the carelessness of other men before him, but
he did not let that alter his own determination to do his own
part well. He had been an itinerant for twenty-four years be-
fore coming to Westfield. His historical sermon preached March
24, 1867, and carefully preserved is the best record we have of
the early history of this church. He took pains to ascertain the
facts and to give his own impressions of the men and the times,
and these are valuable at the present and will become increasing-
ly valuable as the years roll on. Of course some of it is a mere
catalogue, but such a catalogue is very necessary, which the
elapsing years make it harder and harder to construct. I pay
this tribute to Brother Richards for he richly deserves it. The
membership of the church, he gives as 330.

We now approach into the realms of the living. John

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

H Mansfield, retired from active ministry, in 1909, after a service
extending over a period of nearly sixty years. I remember .so
well meeting him at "Wesleyan University at the time of his
fiftieth anniversary of graduation and his showing me some
large elms there, that his class had been interested in setting out.

It was during the pastorate of Brother Mansfield that there
occurred the greatest revival within the history of our church.
Beginning within the official board, it worked out, and continued,
until it had touched the lives of about four hundred and fifty
different individuals. The officials of the church were especially
active while the assistance of the famous Troy Praying Band,
will ever be remembered by those who were fortunate partici-
pants in this great awakening. Services were held both day
and night, and continued for weeks.

George "Whitaker. so well remembered by the people of this
parish, both as pastor and then as Presiding Elder, and who is
to assist us in making this anniversary the success that we anti-
cipate, both by his personal presence and by his contribution
thereto, comes next. His resonant voice and his wonderful vo-
cabulary are not forgotten and will not be, for a long time to
come. His services in preserving the history of the New Eng-
land Conference, are worthy of mention, 'for he is at this day
the custodian of the archives of the Conference, and one of the
best informed men therein. I must not pass without also call-
ing attention to the valuable service he rendered in the days
when Laurel Park Camp-Ground was established, and to the
further fact that he resided in Westfield, as District Superin-
tendent.

In the pastorate of Dr. Whitaker, valuable extension work
was undertaken. A strong group of resolute, pious and energetic
men was formed, which was known as the Praying Band, and
held services in the neighboring communities. Southwick, North
Blandford and Feeding Hills were among the sections Which
they touched. Most interesting are the reminiscences of those
active days. In fact, it is said that the Band saved one church
to our denomination. Of course such aggressive service could
not but react most splendidlv upon the inner life of the local
communion. It is quite possible that the echoes from the great

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

revival, and the success of the Troy Praying Band, were some-
what responsible for this missionary band of laymen.

Between the first pastorate of Dr. T womb ley and his com-
ing again to this church, he had served as President of the Wis-
consin State University. To him must be given much of the credit
for the erection and completion of this edifice in which weare gath-
ered tonight. The lot on which it stands, so splendidly situated,
bears testimony to the wisdom of those who selected it. The
house which stood on the lot is now located just to the rear. It
was the residence of the late Doctor James Holland, and the ad-
joining avenue is most appropriately called Holland Avenue.
The corner stone of the new church was laid by Dr. Twombley
June 3rd, 1875 at 2 o'clock in the afternoon. The following
former pastors participated in the exercises: — Devotional ser-
vice, Messrs. Richards and Barrows; Addresses. Messrs. HascalL
Trafton and Whitaker. — The box was placed in position by Hon.
Thomas Kneil, and the benediction pronounced by Rev. C. H.
Vinton. The audience sung three hymns and the Sunday School
gave a Victory song. The church was completed and dedicated
Tuesday, April 4th. 1876. That was a really great occasion for
Westfield Methodism, for not only was the spacious and beauti-
ful edifice completed and ready for use, but the renowned preach-
er and orator, Bishop Matthew Simpson, had been secured for the
sermon of the occasion. There was the singing of that magni-
ficent hymn, Coronation, both at the corner stone laying and at
the dedication — a worthy coincidence.

It came about that as when the church at the corner of
School street was erected, the New England Conference soon
honored the structure with its presence, they did the same now,
and it was in 1878. during the pastorate of Samuel L. Gracey
that w r e entertained these welcome guests, in the handsome and
worshipful new church building. Bishop Harris presided and
wisely returned Dr. Gracey once more to our midst. Who will
forget that genial pastor! We can almost hear him, as he used
to delight to sing, "Hold the Fort." in the vestry services or at
the temperance meetings in the Town Hall. His cordial greetings,
his hearty manner, his delightful social qualities, we enjoyed then,
and since. It has been such a privilege to entertain him. Only
a year ago and he was here and spoke to us. How he would have

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

enjoyed this occasion ! But he would not have us mourn for him .
He has simply gone on before ; after his long service as American
Consul at Foo Chow.

I hesitate to speak of the pastorates of these men, whom we
know so well and many of whom will be our guests, but the
record would be even more fragmentary than it is now, if I
should omit them, and furthermore it would not be brought down
to date. Dr. Frederick Woods, a member of a distinguished
Newfoundland family, was our pastor for two terms, six years
in all. His unusual sermons, with such a grasp and such diction,
majestic in their sweep, typical of the mind of their creator,
remain with us yet. He became pastor at Trinity Church,
Springfield, following his first appointment with us, and after
the second appointment, he went to Hyde Park. Several of the
best of the New England. Conference appointments, have been his.
and he numbers his friends in many places. It is now 52 years
since he began his services with the South Hadley Falls parish.
After Mr. Cass' year of service, came Rev. E. A. Titus for three
years. I recall with what curiosity as a boy I used to greet
these new pastors. It was so interesting. — the pondering as
to whom they looked like, and then the first Sunday — who ever
forgets it ! Really, Methodist people do have their compensa-
tions, in the midst of the occasional changes. During Mr.
Titus' pastorate came the famed Pratt revival, which resulted
in the bringing into the fold of such an accession of new mem-
bers. I well remember the great number standing at the altar to
be received into the church. When Dr. Leonard first arrived in
Westfield, following Brother Titus he was so imprest with this
recent ingathering, the responsibility made him pause. The
large numbers at the Communion table were beautiful to see.

Who can ever lose the charm of personal acquaintance with
Brother Leonard ? The conversations at the parsonage, the gen-
ial, cordial ways he had, the social side always so prominent.
How interested in the young people ! We thought it rather
queer that he preferred to have the prayer meeting songs sung
without accompaniment, but that was his way, and it proved not
such a bad method after all, during his three years of residence
with us. He always preached without notes which was quite
in contrast to his predecessor. He left Wiestfield for Wesley

METHODISM IX AYESTFIELD

Church, Salem, and then for Maiden Center, Melrose and soon
the Superintendence* of the Lynn District, where his keen busi-
ness sense had special opportunity for display. Perhaps we
owe to him as much as to any single person, the coming of Dr.
Frick to Westfield, and he deserves our sincere gratitude. It
was Brother Leonard, who conducted the semi-centennial exercises
of 1886, so successfully. Brother Young was in frail health and
remained but a single year. After Dr. Woods' second assign-
ment of four years, Rev. L. H. Dorchester came among us, being
appointed to Westfield from St. Luke's, Springfield, where in
his first charge he had served five years. A hard worker, social,
systematic, and popular, he made his influence count in church,
parish and community The time limit removed him at the end
of five years, but they were good years. He knew everybody
and had a word for every occasion. His careful guarding of the
resources of the church, his attention to details, made his pastor-
ate wonderfully successful and pleasing. He has gone to some
of the large churches of this conference and of all Methodism,
and is now stationed at the Elm Park Church, Seranton, Penn.

Who will forget the sainted Fred Upham ! His reputation
had preceded him, and our acquaintance of the few months he
remained, justified all that we had heard. A lovable type of
man, poorly endowed physically, but richly endowed mentally
and spiritually, an unusual master of pulpit utterance even with
indifferent voice, he was taken ill with pneumonia while on a
Thanksgiving trip to visit his father in New Jersey, and after
two weeks, passed away The funeral was held in this church
and his body reposed in front of the altar, guarded by details/
continuously, until removed to Reading for burial.

Who could characterize the genial John D. Pickles ! Gen-
erous to the limit ; whole-hearted, naturally of the vigorous
spiritual type, never sparing himself, an interesting preacher,
the greatest caller the church has perhaps ever known, never so
happy as when in the sick-room praying and singing with the
afflicted, be gave us three splendid years, and went to the St.
John's Church in South Boston, although we had anticipated his
return. His sudden death two years ago. brought sadness to us
all. It was during his pastorate that the debt of the church
was reduced $20,000. The labor that he and others put in on

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

that worthy abject can with difficulty be estimated. The sud-
den move of Dr. Pickles to supply the exigencies of St. John's
Church, brought Rev. Charles E. Davis to this charge. AVe had
heard him preach when he visited his friend, Joel Leonard, and
of course his reputation had preceded him. Of mental depth,
able to think out his own problems, deeply spiritual, of a sen-
sitive nature, a genius for finance and material equipment, I13
was a blessing to our church, as he had been to others. It was
under his encouragement, that the auditorium and vestry were
re-decorated by the Trustees, and the auditorium re-furnished by
the Ladies' Parsonage Society And by no means least, he was
the individual who got us into the way of raising the financial
budget at the beginning of the year, rather than coming up to
the close with a deficit — that bug-bear of many a church, and
of ourselves for many a year. It is of interest to note the fact
that Messrs. Pickles and Davis followed each other in four of the
leading charges of the New England Conference. Dr. Davis has
recently been Principal of the Academy at Wilbraham and is now
a pastor in Lynn, at the Boston Street Church.

Shall I venture to mention our present pastor, now on his
fourth year of splendid service? His status in the church and
in the community are more eloquent than any words of mine.
We like him, we appreciate him and we admire him ! He is a
worthy successor of most excellent predecessors. I have come
nearly to the end of the recorded doings of this First Methodist
Episcopal Church of Westfield. My survey must soon close. It
has been so brief, almost fragmentary — but necessarily so. How-
ever, I must not conclude without a bare mention of some of the
organizations of the church to which we owe so much. I have
made reference to the Sunday School, incidentally. Its be-
ginning was almost simultaneous with our existence as an in-
dependent society, and during its seventy years of existence it
has given a good account of itself, and has been of immeasurable
value to the church, itself. — The Young People's Society organ-
ized during the time of the civil war, re-organized in 1873 and
later constituted a chapter of the Ep worth League has imprest
itself indelibly upon the social and other activities of the church.
Its money contributions, in paying for the Church organ, and
other essential things in the church run into thousands of dol-

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

lars. The Ladies' Missionary societies, with their honorable
history extending over the years, the older branch, that
of the Foreign society, dating back to 1870, deserve
most honorable mention. The money that they have
raised totals in the thousands, and has blest the reci-
pients and honored the givers. The continual and sue
cessful activities of the Ladies' Parsonage Society and its pre-
decessor, are well known to us all, but they warrant special
notice. It may not be generally known that the labor of this or-
ganization dates back to 1853 when they engaged in carpeting
the church and cushioning the pews. The purchase in 1863 of
the former parsonage, on Washington street, its exchange for the
present parsonage on Day avenue, the continual care of the par-
sonage property and furnishings, the carpeting and cushioning
of the present church and the renewals thereof, the improve-
ment below-stairs, all these many things have given them great
and continual opportunity, and they have met it all in a gracious
spirit and with a marked success. I would not attempt to es-
timate the amount of money they have raised and expended, but
their work speaks for itself, and it has always been performed
gracefully and has been a means of social up- J if t to the church.

I am indebted to the material of Rev. Daniel Richards, to
the History of the New England Conference by Rev. James
Mudge, to the Historical Address of Hon. Thomas Kneil in
1886, to Louis Marinus Dewey and to others for aid in getting
glimpses of the life and activity of this church, during the
years of its history.

You will observe in the printed leaflet a list of the Presid-
ing Elders who have visited us regularly for the seventy -five
years. As a class they have been men, who have risen to their
positions of importance and responsibility, because of work well
done and talent displayed in the pre^:-ding years. Messrs. Whit
aker, Thorndike, Richardson and Kennedy still survive. Thorn-
dike, the rugged but cordial man, of the mental equipment,
Richardson, the gracious, cultured, dignified gentleman, and
Kennedy, the keen, business-like, popular official, are so well
remembered as to require mere mention. Methodism will do well
to look careCniLy to its District Superintendency, for no other

METHODISM IN WESTFIELD

single feature of the itinerant sysicm has done more for the
progress of the church throughout the country at large.

*The list of young men who have more recently gone forth
from our membership into the field of the pastorate is pleasant
to recall. From California to Mame, five of the brethren have
been holding forth each Sunday, giving a good account of them-
selves, and reflecting credit upon their original home church.
In conclusion : —

We have been first of all, a united church — faction has had
no place in our councils; we have been an active church, aggres-
sive and moving; we have been a loyal church — loyal to our
own organization and loyal to the denomination of which we are
a part — taking our ministers from the Conference of which we
delight to call ourselves a member and congratulating ourselves
upon the splendid men sent to us: and finally, we have been
a spiritual church — content to accept some things we cannot
understand and always realizing that we are simply a part of
the church universal, "which is without fault before the throne
of God."

May our future be worthy of our past!

w».-** (W :„ C " 5 ul1 ' Pasaden a, Cal.; M. L. Robinson, New York City; D. B. Aldrich,
Whitinsville, Mass. : L. L. Harris, Greenland, N. H. ; C. F. Beebe, Round Pond, Maine.)

HISTORICAL SUMMARY

1771 Francis Asbury sent to America by John Wesley.

1781 Methodist Episcopal Church formed in Baltimore.

1790 Jesse Lee preaches on Boston Common.

1792 Firat Conference in New England held at Lynn.

1794 Preaching in Westfield at Mundale (Hoop-pole) on the
Granville Circuit of the Rhinebeck District of the New-
York Conference.

1812 Preaching in the center of the town of Westfield, corner
of Elm and Main streets.

1829 Granville Circuit added to the New England Conference.
First church building erected at Mundale (Hoop-pole).

1833 First church edifice dedicated in Westfield, at corner of
Main street and Clinton avenue.

1836 Organized as an independent society, and separated from
the Granville Circuit.

1813 Erection of the church building, corner of Elm and
School streets.

1811 New England Conference met in Westfield.

1851 New England Conference met in Westfield.

1862 New England Conference met in Westfield.

1875 Erection of the present church building, corner of Court
street and Holland avenue.

1878 New England Conference met in Westfield.

1910 New England Conference met in Westfield.

METHODISM IX WESTFIELD
METHODIST PASTORS IN WESTFIELD

I. From 1794-1S29. At this time Westfield was in the New

York Conference and belonged to the ' ' Granville Circuit. ' '

' ' Circuit E iders. ' '

1795, Lemuel Smith, Zebulon Kankey; 1796, Joseph Mitchell,
Ralph Williston; 1797, Daniel Bromley, Eibenezer iMc. Lane; 1798,
Daniel We'bh, Ezekiel Canfield; 1799, Peter Jayne, Elias Batchelor;
l&OiO, Billy Hibbard, Truman Bishop; 1801, Timothy Dewey, Alexander
■Me. Lean; 18'0'2, Efoenezer Washburn; 180(3, Bbenezer Washburn, Nath-
an Fetch; 1804, Joshua Crowell, Sumner Andrews; 1806, Bben Smith,
Theophilus Smith, M. Curtis; 1806, Bben Smith, Theophilus Smith, M.
Curtis; 180'7, Nathan Emory, P. Rice; 1808, Laban Clarke, Jacob Bee-
man; 1809, Gershon Pierce, Robt. Hibbard; 1810, Marvin Richardson,
Gershon Pierce; 1811, Friend Draper, J. B. Stratton; 1812, Reuben
Harris, Thos. Thorpe; 1813, Reuben Harris, Peter Bussing; 1814, Cy-
rus Culver, Buel Goodsel; 1815, Cyrus Culver, Aaron Pierce; 1816,
Billy 'Hibbard, David Miller; 1817, Billy Hibbard, Smith Dayton; 18i3,
Cyrus Culver, Smith Dayton; 1819, Coles Carpenter, Theodosius Clarke;
ISaO', Coles Carpenter, Robert Seeney; 1821, Andrew McCain, Samuel
Eighmey; 1822, Samuel Eighmey, Henry Hatfield, Cyrus Culver; 1823,
Nathan Rice, Gershon Pierce; 1824, Gershon Pierce, Nathan Rice;
l.S2o, Smith Dayton, P. C. Oarkley; 1826, David Miller, P. C. Oarkley,
J. W. Allen; 1827, Elbert Osborne, C. F. Pelton; 1828, Elbert Osborne,
L. Mead, Cyrus Culver.

II. From 1829-1836. In 1829 a part of the Granville Circuit

was set off from the New York Conference and assigned
to the New England Conference- Wtestfield became head
of the Circuit in 1832.

1829. John Nixon; 1830. Jefferson Hascall, Erastus Otis;
1S31, Samuel Estin. Winson Ward, David Leslie; 1832,
Henry Mayo, Otis Wilder, David Leslie; 1833, G. W. Tucker, J. D.
Bridge; 1834, J. D. Bridge, Ephraim Scott, Asa Niles; 1835, Samuel
Palmer, Ephraim Scott.

III. From 1836-1813. After Westfield had separated from

the Granville Circuit, had become an independent society,
and the society was worshipping in the original church,
built J 833, corner Main St. and Clinton Ave.

METHODISM IX ~W EST FIELD

1836, Paul Townsend; 1838, William Smith; 1839, Benjamin
McLouth; 1841, Ephraim Scott; 1842, Jefferson Hascall.

IV From 1843-1875. During which, time the society wor-

shipped in its second church edifice, erected 1813 — the
Post Office Building for 39 years.

1843, Jefferson Hascall; 1844, Mark Trafton; 1845, H. V. Degen;
3846, Mark Trafton; 1847, Miner Raymond; 1848, J. B. Husted; 1849, G.
F. Cox; 1851, J. H. Twombley; 1853, William Butler (Founder of
Methodist Missions in India and Mexico); 1854, Mark Trafton;
1855, Gilbert Haven (afterward Bishop); 1857, I. J. Collyer:
1858, D. E. Chapin; 1861, Geo. Bowler; 1863, H. W. Warren
(afterward Bishop); 1865, Daniel Richards; 1867, W. G. Lewis; 1868,
J. H. Mansfield; 1870, George Whitaker; 1872, J. S. Barrows; 1874, J.
H. Twombley.

V From 1875 to 1913, or since the erection of our present

church edifice, which was dedicated by Bishop Matthew

Simpson in 1875.

1875, J. H. Twombley; 1877, S. L. Gracey; 1880, Frederick Woods;
1882, J. A. Cass; 1883, E. A. Titus; 1886, J. M. Leonard; 1889, Charles
Young; 1890, Frederick Woods; 1894, L. H. Dorchester; 1899, F. X.
Upham; 1900, J. D. Pickles; 1903, C. E. Davis; 190i8, Philip L. Frick;
1912, Conrad Hooker.

VI. Presiding Elders from 1836 to 1913.

1836, Joseph A. Merrill; 1838, Daniel Dorchester; 1840, Reuben
Ransom; 1844, A. D. Sargeant; 1846, Amos Binney; 1850, Charles
Baker; 1854, Thomas Marcy; 1858, William Gordon; 1862, Ralph W.
Allen; 1866, David Sherman; 1870, L. R. Thayer; 1874, George Whita-
ker; 1878, D. H. Ela; 1882, Nathaniel Fellows; 1886, G. F. Eaton; 1892,
E. R. Thorndike; 1897, J. O. Knowles; 1903, W. G. Richardson; 1909,
J. P. Kennedy.

VII. Presiding Bishops at Westfield.

1844, Janes and Hedding; 1854, Baker; 1862, Janes; 1878, Harris;
1910i, Wilson.